5 Ways to Reduce Stress Whilst Job Hunting

It’s hardly surprising that many of us feel stressed out when finding a new job. We find ourselves in a situation that involves both uncertainty and pressure. However, it is possible to manage our stress levels whilst on the hunt for work.

We’d recommend taking a look at our Managing Stress at Work and our How to Get the Job You Want 2.0 to learn more about how to be more effective in your job search without creating stress.

Here are some pointers to help you stay calm and reduce the stress whilst looking for that dream job:

1. Focus on only one type of role.

If you’re pursuing several different types of job, you’ll not only be less likely to end up in a job that’s genuinely suited to you, you’re also likely to become drained in the process. Trying to maintain a number of different job-seeking ‘personas’ and constantly switching between them is an exhausting process. Instead focus all your precious energy and efforts on pursuing one specific kind of career path.

2. Prioritise quality above quantity.

Many of us believe applying for as many jobs as possible is the best way of landing work, but this isn’t the case at all. What really happens when we cram 50 or more job applications into the space of a week is that each application is lacking in quality and is quickly disregarded by the recruiter or employer we sent it to. It’s easy to spot the job application that has been rushed or is little more than a template. Having someone throw your CV in the bin almost as soon as they set eyes on it is not worth the pressure you put yourself under by cramming so many job applications into your days.

3. Look after yourself.

Even though finding a full-time job is a full-time job in itself, this is no excuse for us as job seekers to neglect our health and wellbeing. We’re able to deal with stress a lot better when we get 8 hours of sleep a night, keep ourselves well hydrated, eat a balanced diet and make time to exercise regularly. This type of lifestyle advice is nothing we don’t already know—it’s up to us to finally acknowledge its importance and commit to following it.

4. Increase those endorphins.

One reason why exercise should be a priority in the job searcher’s life is because it produces endorphins, which create a feeling of well-being. Apart from exercise, other ways you can produce endorphins include laughing, eating spicy food or indulging in a bit of chocolate. So, for instance, inviting your wittiest friends round for a curry takeaway followed up by a chocolate-y dessert is a great way to give yourself an endorphin boost.

5. Ask for help and support.

The job hunt can be so stressful because it’s a really isolating experience for some of us. By regularly asking for help, advice and information from your network you can avoid feelings of isolation. Explain to family and friends how they can support you both practically and emotionally. If you’re looking for professional support, consider working with a good career guide who can help you land the job you want by going over your career objectives and job search strategies with you.